Nagabhandam Not Inspired by Chhavva, Aims for Balanced Historical Tale
Director Abhishek Nama says Nagabhandam draws from 1700s events but insists it’s not an anti-Muslim film.

It’s well known that the Bollywood movie Chhavva depicted the real-life story of Sambhaji, the Maratha king who fiercely fought against the Mughal emperor Aurangzeb. Now, sources claim that director Abhishek Nama is working on a semi-historical film titled Nagabhandam, which reportedly shares some similarities with Chhavva. However, Abhishek dismisses the comparison.
"We completed our script two years ago. Claims that Chhavva inspired us are untrue," he clarifies. "The only similarity is that both films are based on historical events — nothing more."
Nagabhandam is being made on a lavish scale with a budget of ₹80 crore and aims to connect the past and present worlds. "Our story draws inspiration from a real-life event in the 1700s when Muslim rulers attempted to destroy Hindu temples. Around 3,000 Naga Sadhus bravely fought and defeated a mighty Muslim army in Gokul. Of course, we've added a lot of fiction to craft a commercial entertainer," Abhishek adds.
Given the current national mood, which leans towards a pro-Hindu sentiment, the makers are positioning Nagabhandam as a pan-India film that celebrates Hinduism. "Our ancient temples are rich in sanctity, heritage, and the bhakti tradition of Hindus. Indians have always been deeply religious, devoted to Lord Vishnu, Shiva, and their many forms and avatars. For centuries, Muslim invaders tried to destroy our temples and erase Hindu traditions, but our devotion remained steadfast," Abhishek explains.
He emphasizes that the film highlights only a portion of historical brutality, woven into a gripping story centered on ardent devotees and fearless Naga Sadhus.
Abhishek also admits that Maharaja Sambhaji’s valor deeply inspired him in Chhavva. "We need more historical films that showcase the fearlessness of Hindu rulers who resisted oppression in the name of religion," he reasons. "We can't just make a film to capitalize on the current pro-Hindu sentiment; we must tell a good story without distorting history. Ultimately, it’s up to the pan-India audience to decide."
He concludes by stressing that Nagabhandam will not be an anti-Muslim film but will aim to present a balanced view of the past. "We are careful about it," he says.